Chief of Party - USAID Basic Education Activity

World Learning

Dushanbe, Tajikistan

The Chief of Party will be responsible for technical leadership and provide administrative oversight of the implementation of all components under this program. S/he will serve as World Learning's principal liaison to the donor. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of strong leadership, organizational management, exemplary communication skills; be politically savvy with the ability to solve problems quickly while ensuring program quality and integrity; be a dynamic individual and seasoned director who is experienced in managing project implementation partnerships, coordinating with government entities, partner organizations, and program stakeholders; and able to work effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Strong track record of effective management in Tajikistan or the region strongly desired.

Recruitment is contingent upon successful award of the project.

Base of designation is expected to be Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Responsibilities

Provide overall leadership, management, and strategic direction for the program;
In conjunction with USAID and World Learning HQ, determine annual priorities, develop work plans, and ensure program responds to changing conditions and operating environments;
Oversee program administration, implementation, and fiscal management to ensure financial activity aligns with budget allocations, internal policies, and USAID regulations;
Oversee and monitor quality of all program activities, and ensure reports, work plans, and other program deliverables are timely and of high quality;
Serve as overall communications/liaison with the donor, implementing partners, and key stakeholders including government representatives of Tajikistan;
Report regularly to World Learning HQ, providing timely updates of all situational, security, and program developments;
Manage and supervise team of local and international staff and consultants;
Represent World Learning at conferences, working groups, and meetings;
Other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

Master's degree in a field required, or alternatively 10 years of experience in a relevant field in lieu of a Master's degree;
A minimum of 10 years of experience in management of donor-funded projects related to foundational education, pre-service and/or in-service teacher education, curriculum reform, and STEM education; SEL a plus
Experience in managing USAID projects with budgets in $10 million - $25 million range; with experience
as a Chief of Party, Country Director, or Deputy for a project of similar scope and complexity;
Demonstrated knowledge and application of relevant USAID policies and strategies, including USAID's Education Policy; Private Sector Engagement Policy; Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy; Positive Youth Development; and Collaborating, Learning, and Adapting Framework;
Ability to advise host country contacts at the ministerial level, and create and maintain effective working relations with international and local stakeholders, NGOs, local partners, and U.S. Government Agencies;
Good understanding of local context, with previous resident work experience in Tajikistan or the region strongly preferred;
Excellent communication and diplomatic skills with track record of collaborative and responsive management;
Professional level of verbal and written fluency in English required; Tajik and Russian preferred;
Strong leadership and personnel management skills;
Commitment to inclusive programming that encourages full participation of individuals regardless of gender, disability status, ethnicity, religion, or other marginalized status.